Spontaneous Sweataccording to TCM

Symptom families: Sweating Disorders, Excessive Sweating

Did you mean? Perspiration

Root Causes of Spontaneous Sweat in TCM

Explore below more details about what might cause Spontaneous sweat according to TCM.

  • By Syndrome
  • By Organ
  • Qi Deficiency
  • Yang Deficiency
  • Qi Stagnation
  • Blood Deficiency
  • Qi Sinking
  • Heat
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Deficiency

Qi Deficiency in TCM is like running low on battery power. Qi is the vital energy that powers every function in your body. When there's a Qi Deficiency, it means your body doesn't have enough of this essential energy. This can make you feel tired all the time, weak, or even cause shortness of breath. It's similar to how you feel when you haven't had enough sleep or nutritious food. Your body just doesn't have the energy it needs to perform at its best. Unlike modern medicine, which often focuses on specific physical causes for fatigue and weakness, TCM views Qi Deficiency as an overall energy depletion that affects your entire well-being, and it seeks to replenish and balance this vital energy.... see more

Qi Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Spontaneous Sweat

Common Symptoms: Palpitations Generalized Fatigue Shortness Of Breath Pale Face Abnormal Uterine Bleeding General Weakness Weak Voice Reluctance To Speak

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heart Qi Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, Palpitations, Exertional dyspnea, Pale face, Spontaneous sweat, Generalized fatigue... see more Bao Yuan Tang | Bai Zi Yang Xin Wan | Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang
Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Reluctance to speak, Pale face, Frequent colds or flu, Generalized fatigue, Palpitations, Depression, Spontaneous sweat, Sighing... see more Bao Yuan Tang | Si Jun Zi Tang
Protective Qi Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, Spontaneous sweat, Recurrent colds, Bright pale face, Pale tongue Yu Ping Feng San
Qi and Blood Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness, Poor memory, Insomnia, Reluctance to speak, Lack of appetite, Limb numbness, Skin numbness... see more Gui Pi Tang | Ba Zhen Tang | Guo Qi Yin | Zhi Gan Cao Tang
Qi Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, General weakness, Weak voice, Generalized fatigue, Low energy, Reluctance to speak, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Lack of appetite, Diarrhea, Shortness of breath... see more Si Jun Zi Tang | Liu Jun Zi Tang
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Obesity, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Spontaneous sweat, Reluctance to speak, Frequent colds or flu, Aversion to cold... see more Si Jun Zi Tang | Liu Jun Zi Tang
Qi Deficiency Fever Spontaneous sweating, Intermittent fever that worsens upon exertion, Spontaneous sweat, Aversion to cold, Craving for hot beverages, Chronic hepatitis, Arrhythmia, Hypertension, Chronic bronchitis, Chronic rhinitis, Aphthous stomatitis... see more Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang
Spleen or Kidney Qi Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, Early menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Chills, Nocturia, Thin menstrual blood, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Spontaneous sweat... see more Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Gui Pi Tang | He Che Da Zao Wan
Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat Spontaneous sweating, Irritability, Spontaneous sweat, Eye hyperemia, Dry mouth, Palpitations, Lower abdominal oppression, Painful urination, Excessive menstruation, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Tidal fever... see more Jia Wei Xiao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Yang Deficiency

Yang deficiency in TCM refers to a state where the body's Yang energy, which is responsible for warmth, activity, and function, is weakened or diminished. This pattern of disharmony often arises from chronic illness, aging, or inherent constitutional weakness. Symptoms of Yang deficiency are typically associated with cold and sluggishness, such as a feeling of coldness, cold extremities, pale complexion, low energy or fatigue, and a desire for warmth. Digestive issues like poor appetite, loose stools, and water retention can also be indicative of Yang deficiency.... see more

Yang Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Spontaneous Sweat

Common Symptoms: Generalized Fatigue Palpitations Exertional Dyspnea Slight Feeling Of Stuffiness In The Heart Chills Cold Hands Bright Pale Face Dark Lips

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heart Yang Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, Palpitations, Exertional dyspnea, Generalized fatigue, Spontaneous sweat, Slight feeling of stuffiness in the heart, Chills, Cold hands, Bright pale face, Dark lips... see more Gui Zhi Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang
Lung Yang Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Cold extremities, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Pale face, Generalized fatigue, Shortness of breath, Absence of thirst, Wheezing, Weak voice... see more Si Jun Zi Tang | Gan Cao Gan Jiang Tang | Sheng Mai San
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Stagnation

Qi Stagnation in TCM is like having a traffic jam in your body's energy system. Qi, the vital life force that flows through your body, is supposed to move smoothly to maintain health and balance. But with Qi Stagnation, this flow gets blocked or slowed down, like cars stuck on a highway. This can lead to symptoms like feeling stressed, emotional mood swings, and physical discomfort, often described as a feeling of fullness or tightness, especially in the chest or abdomen. It's as though the body's internal energy circulation is disrupted, causing various issues. TCM sees this as an energy flow problem, different from modern medicine's focus on specific physiological processes.... see more

Qi Stagnation Patterns That Can Lead to Spontaneous Sweat

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat Spontaneous sweating, Irritability, Spontaneous sweat, Eye hyperemia, Dry mouth, Palpitations, Lower abdominal oppression, Painful urination, Excessive menstruation, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Tidal fever... see more Jia Wei Xiao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Blood Deficiency

Blood Deficiency in TCM is like when your body's tank runs low on the vital energy that blood provides. It's not exactly the same as anemia in modern medicine, which is about having too few red blood cells. Instead, Blood Deficiency in TCM is about your body not having enough of the life-giving qualities that blood brings, like nourishment and moisture. This can make you feel tired, look pale, and even feel dizzy or have blurry vision. It's like a garden not getting enough water to stay lush and vibrant. TCM sees this as an imbalance where the body isn't being nourished as it should be, impacting overall health and well-being.... see more

Blood Deficiency Patterns That Can Lead to Spontaneous Sweat

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi and Blood Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, General weakness, Generalized fatigue, Weak voice, Pale face, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Dizziness, Poor memory, Insomnia, Reluctance to speak, Lack of appetite, Limb numbness, Skin numbness... see more Gui Pi Tang | Ba Zhen Tang | Guo Qi Yin | Zhi Gan Cao Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Qi Sinking

Qi Sinking is a pattern of disharmony in TCM where the body's energy, or Qi, is thought to "sink" or drop down. Imagine a balloon slowly deflating and falling; that's similar to what happens with Qi Sinking. This can lead to feelings of heaviness, fatigue, and even physical symptoms like prolapse of organs or frequent urination. It's as if the body's energy, which usually supports and holds things in place, isn't able to do its job properly. TCM views this as an imbalance where the uplifting and supporting qualities of Qi are weakened.... see more

Qi Sinking Patterns That Can Lead to Spontaneous Sweat

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Qi Collapsing or Qi Sinking Spontaneous sweating, Uterine prolapse, Prolapsed bladder, Stomach prolapse, Nephroptosis, Anus prolapse, Bearing down sensation in abdomen, Hemorrhoids, Chronic diarrhea, Frequent and urgent urination, Urinary incontinence, Generalized fatigue, Low energy, Intestines prolapse, Vaginal prolapse... see more Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Du Shen Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Heat

In TCM "Heat" signifies an excess of Yang energy, leading to an imbalance where heat predominates over the body's cool Yin aspects. This condition is metaphorically akin to an internal over-heating. Symptoms indicative of Heat can include feelings of warmth, fever, sweating, irritability, red face, thirst with a preference for cold drinks, and a rapid pulse. The tongue may appear red with a yellow coating. Unlike the common interpretation of heat in terms of temperature, in TCM, it represents a state of hyperactivity or inflammation in the body.... see more

Heat Patterns That Can Lead to Spontaneous Sweat

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat Spontaneous sweating, Irritability, Spontaneous sweat, Eye hyperemia, Dry mouth, Palpitations, Lower abdominal oppression, Painful urination, Excessive menstruation, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Tidal fever... see more Jia Wei Xiao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Kidney

In TCM the Kidneys are regarded as the body's most fundamental reservoir of Essence, known as Jing, which influences growth, reproduction, and aging. They are not just organs for filtering blood, but a holistic system governing vital life forces. When the Kidneys malfunction in TCM, it can manifest as a variety of health issues, such as chronic fatigue, reproductive problems, imbalances in fluid metabolism leading to edema or dryness, lower back pain, and a sense of fear or insecurity.... see more

Kidney Patterns That Can Lead to Spontaneous Sweat

Common Symptoms: Lower Back Pain Dizziness Early Menstruation Pale Menstrual Flow Chills Nocturia Thin Menstrual Blood Shortness Of Breath

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Kidneys failing to receive Qi Spontaneous sweating, Exertional dyspnea, Rapid respiration, Weak respiratory, Difficulty breathing in, Chronic coughing, Asthma, Spontaneous sweat, Cold extremities, Facial edema, Emaciation, Low energy, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Tinnitus, Clear urination... see more You Gui Wan | Su Zi Jiang Qi Tang | Ren Shen Ge Jie San
Protective Qi Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, Spontaneous sweat, Recurrent colds, Bright pale face, Pale tongue Yu Ping Feng San
Spleen or Kidney Qi Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, Early menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Chills, Nocturia, Thin menstrual blood, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Spontaneous sweat... see more Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Gui Pi Tang | He Che Da Zao Wan
Detailed description of the cause

Spleen

In TCM the Spleen plays a vital role in digestion and transformation, converting food into energy and nutrients, and overseeing the distribution of Qi and Blood. It's also crucial in maintaining the health of muscles and limbs and ensuring the blood remains within the vessels. When the Spleen malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a variety of issues such as digestive disorders, fatigue, weak muscles, bloating, and a feeling of heaviness. It can also cause a pale complexion, poor appetite, and a tendency to bruise easily. Emotionally, a Spleen imbalance is often associated with excessive worry or overthinking, reflecting its role in the interplay between physical and mental health.... see more

Spleen Patterns That Can Lead to Spontaneous Sweat

Common Symptoms: Shortness Of Breath Palpitations Generalized Fatigue General Weakness Pale Face Early Menstruation Pale Menstrual Flow Lower Back Pain

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Obesity, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Spontaneous sweat, Reluctance to speak, Frequent colds or flu, Aversion to cold... see more Si Jun Zi Tang | Liu Jun Zi Tang
Spleen or Kidney Qi Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, Early menstruation, Pale menstrual flow, Lower back pain, Dizziness, Chills, Nocturia, Thin menstrual blood, Shortness of breath, Palpitations, Spontaneous sweat... see more Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang | Gui Pi Tang | He Che Da Zao Wan
Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat Spontaneous sweating, Irritability, Spontaneous sweat, Eye hyperemia, Dry mouth, Palpitations, Lower abdominal oppression, Painful urination, Excessive menstruation, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Tidal fever... see more Jia Wei Xiao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Heart

In TCM the Heart is considered the "emperor" of all organs, primarily responsible for governing Blood and housing the mind, known as "Shen." It plays a crucial role in maintaining mental-emotional equilibrium and controlling the circulation of Qi and blood throughout the body. When the Heart is imbalanced or malfunctions in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues like heart palpitations, insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep, anxiety, and a flushed complexion. Emotional disturbances such as excessive joy or lack of joy are also seen as signs of Heart disharmony. These symptoms reflect not just physical heart conditions but also the state of one's Shen, indicating the interconnectedness of physical and emotional well-being in TCM.... see more

Heart Patterns That Can Lead to Spontaneous Sweat

Common Symptoms: Palpitations Generalized Fatigue Exertional Dyspnea Pale Face Slight Feeling Of Stuffiness In The Heart Chills Cold Hands Bright Pale Face

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Heart Qi Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, Palpitations, Exertional dyspnea, Pale face, Spontaneous sweat, Generalized fatigue... see more Bao Yuan Tang | Bai Zi Yang Xin Wan | Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang
Heart Yang Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, Palpitations, Exertional dyspnea, Generalized fatigue, Spontaneous sweat, Slight feeling of stuffiness in the heart, Chills, Cold hands, Bright pale face, Dark lips... see more Gui Zhi Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang
Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Reluctance to speak, Pale face, Frequent colds or flu, Generalized fatigue, Palpitations, Depression, Spontaneous sweat, Sighing... see more Bao Yuan Tang | Si Jun Zi Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Lung

In TCM the Lungs are seen as the organ responsible for controlling Qi and respiration, as well as being a key part of the body's defensive system. They are thought to maintain the balance and flow of air and moisture, and are closely linked to the skin and hair. When the Lungs are imbalanced or malfunctioning in TCM, it can lead to respiratory issues like coughing or asthma, a weakened immune system, dry skin, and emotional disturbances such as sadness or grief. These symptoms are believed to arise from disruptions in the Lungs' ability to regulate Qi and protect the body, highlighting their central role in maintaining overall health and well-being.... see more

Lung Patterns That Can Lead to Spontaneous Sweat

Common Symptoms: Shortness Of Breath Weak Voice Pale Face Frequent Colds Or Flu Generalized Fatigue Coughing Reluctance To Speak Lack Of Appetite

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Reluctance to speak, Pale face, Frequent colds or flu, Generalized fatigue, Palpitations, Depression, Spontaneous sweat, Sighing... see more Bao Yuan Tang | Si Jun Zi Tang
Lung Yang Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, Coughing and wheezing with copious sputum, Cold extremities, Spontaneous sweat, Frequent colds or flu, Pale face, Generalized fatigue, Shortness of breath, Absence of thirst, Wheezing, Weak voice... see more Si Jun Zi Tang | Gan Cao Gan Jiang Tang | Sheng Mai San
Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, Lack of appetite, Slight abdominal distension after eating, Generalized fatigue, General weakness, Pale face, Weak limbs, Diarrhea, Obesity, Shortness of breath, Coughing, Weak voice, Spontaneous sweat, Reluctance to speak, Frequent colds or flu, Aversion to cold... see more Si Jun Zi Tang | Liu Jun Zi Tang
Detailed description of the cause

Liver

In TCM the Liver is viewed as the organ responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, Blood, and emotions throughout the body. It plays a key role in regulating mood, storing blood, supporting digestion, and ensuring the health of tendons and eyes. When the Liver malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to a range of issues such as irritability, mood swings, menstrual irregularities, eye problems, and muscular stiffness or pain. A malfunctioning Liver in TCM reflects not only physical disturbances but also emotional and mental disharmony, emphasizing the holistic approach of TCM in addressing health and wellness.... see more

Liver Patterns That Can Lead to Spontaneous Sweat

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat Spontaneous sweating, Irritability, Spontaneous sweat, Eye hyperemia, Dry mouth, Palpitations, Lower abdominal oppression, Painful urination, Excessive menstruation, Abnormal uterine bleeding, Tidal fever... see more Jia Wei Xiao Yao San
Detailed description of the cause

Pericardium

In TCM the Pericardium is more than a physical membrane protecting the heart; it's considered an organ system that acts as the "Heart's protector." It plays a crucial role in safeguarding the heart from external pathogenic factors and emotional disturbances. The Pericardium is also involved in regulating blood circulation and influencing emotional well-being, especially in terms of relationships and intimacy. When the Pericardium malfunctions or is imbalanced in TCM, it can lead to symptoms that mirror heart issues, such as chest pain or palpitations, but often with an emotional component like difficulty in forming emotional connections or excessive vulnerability to external stressors. Additionally, a disturbed Pericardium can result in sleep disturbances, anxiety, and in severe cases, mental confusion, reflecting its integral role in both physical heart protection and emotional balance.... see more

Pericardium Patterns That Can Lead to Spontaneous Sweat

Pattern Name Relevant Symptoms Relevant Formulas
Protective Qi Deficiency Spontaneous sweating, Spontaneous sweat, Recurrent colds, Bright pale face, Pale tongue Yu Ping Feng San

TCM Herbal Formulas for Spontaneous Sweat

Explore below some TCM herbal formulas used to address spontaneous sweat, organized by cause and by formula type.

  • By Cause
  • By Formula Type
  • Qi Deficiency
  • Yang Deficiency
  • Qi Stagnation
  • Blood Deficiency
  • Qi Sinking
  • Heat
  • Formulas that tonify qi
  • Formulas that tonify qi and blood
  • Formulas that tonify yin and yang
  • Formulas that nourish the heart and calm the mind
  • Formulas that harmonize liver-Spleen
  • Formulas that warm yang and tonify
  • Formulas for a rebellious qi
  • Formulas that warm interior cold
  • Formulas that tonify blood
  • Formulas that rescue devastated yang

All Formulas Recommended for Spontaneous Sweat Caused by Qi Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Si Jun Zi Tang Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency, Qi Deficiency, Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Qi Deficiency Fever, Spleen or Kidney Qi Deficiency
Gui Pi Tang Spleen or Kidney Qi Deficiency, Qi and Blood Deficiency
Bao Yuan Tang Heart Qi Deficiency, Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency
Liu Jun Zi Tang Qi Deficiency, Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency
He Che Da Zao Wan Spleen or Kidney Qi Deficiency
Bai Zi Yang Xin Wan Heart Qi Deficiency
Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang Heart Qi Deficiency
Jia Wei Xiao Yao San Liver Qi Stagnation with Spleen Qi Deficiency that transforms into Heat
Yu Ping Feng San Protective Qi Deficiency
Ba Zhen Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Guo Qi Yin Qi and Blood Deficiency
Zhi Gan Cao Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Spontaneous Sweat Caused by Yang Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Si Jun Zi Tang Lung Yang Deficiency
Gui Zhi Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang Heart Yang Deficiency
Gan Cao Gan Jiang Tang Lung Yang Deficiency
Sheng Mai San Lung Yang Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Spontaneous Sweat Caused by Blood Deficiency

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Gui Pi Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Ba Zhen Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Guo Qi Yin Qi and Blood Deficiency
Zhi Gan Cao Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency

All Formulas Recommended for Spontaneous Sweat Caused by Qi Sinking

Formula Patterns Suitable For
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Qi Collapsing or Qi Sinking
Du Shen Tang Qi Collapsing or Qi Sinking

All "formulas that tonify qi" recommended for spontaneous sweat

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Si Jun Zi Tang Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency, Lung Yang Deficiency, Qi Deficiency, Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency... see more
Bu Zhong Yi Qi Tang Qi Deficiency Fever, Spleen or Kidney Qi Deficiency, Qi Collapsing or Qi Sinking
Bao Yuan Tang Heart Qi Deficiency, Lung and Heart Qi Deficiency
Liu Jun Zi Tang Qi Deficiency, Spleen and Lung Qi Deficiency
Ren Shen Ge Jie San Kidneys failing to receive Qi
Sheng Mai San Lung Yang Deficiency
Yu Ping Feng San Protective Qi Deficiency

All "formulas that tonify qi and blood" recommended for spontaneous sweat

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Gui Pi Tang Spleen or Kidney Qi Deficiency, Qi and Blood Deficiency
Ba Zhen Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency
Zhi Gan Cao Tang Qi and Blood Deficiency

All "formulas that tonify yin and yang" recommended for spontaneous sweat

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
He Che Da Zao Wan Spleen or Kidney Qi Deficiency
Gui Zhi Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang Heart Yang Deficiency

All "formulas that nourish the heart and calm the mind" recommended for spontaneous sweat

Formula Patterns Suitable For (if applicable)
Bai Zi Yang Xin Wan Heart Qi Deficiency
Bai Zi Yang Xin Tang Heart Qi Deficiency

Acupoints for Spontaneous Sweat

Explore below some acupoints used to address spontaneous sweat, organized by meridian.

  • By Meridian
  • Extra Points: Head and Neck (EX-HN)
  • Directing Vessel
Bailao EX-HN-15

Bailao EX-HN-15

2 cun above the lower border of the spinous process of the 7th cervical vertebra (C7) and 1 cun lateral to the midline.

Shanzhong REN-17

Shanzhong REN-17

On the midline of the chest, on the level of the 4th intercostal space or nipples.